What Are B12 Shots Taken For?

B12, also known as cobalamin or methylcobalamin, is an essential vitamin the body needs to produce healthy red blood cells and maintain the nervous system. It can be ingested from animal-based foods such as beef, poultry and dairy products, or in the form of a nutritional supplement. There are also some cases where a B12 shot is prescribed.

High-Dosage Prescription

• B12 shots are one of the most widely used means for administering high doses of the vitamin directly into the individual's bloodstream.

B12 Deficiency

• If an individual suffers from a deficiency of the B12 vitamin, a B12 shot can be administered to increase levels of the vitamin in the bloodstream. B12 deficiency can result from poor nutrition or aging.

Pernicious Anemia

• B12 shots are prescribed to treat pernicious anemia. This is a form of anemia characterized by poor absorption of the vitamin in the body. Administering a B12 shot bypasses this absorption problem.

Diabetic Neuropathy

• According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, B12 shots are a safe and effective treatment for treating the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.

High Homocysteine Levels

• B12 shots can be prescribed to lower elevated levels of a compound called homocysteine. High homocysteine levels have been linked with a number of chronic diseases such as arthritis.